In our contemplation of the exquisite bicycle before us today we encounter nothing less than the XTC SLR 29 2, hailing from the distinguished house of Giant Bicycles. This entity traces its origins back to the illustrious Giant Group which saw its inception in the annals of 1972. When a brand adorned with such historical tapestry endeavors to forge an economical apparatus for the populace, rest assured it is a venture of commendable value.
Such is the narrative of the XTC SLR, a member of the triumvirate of XTC bicycles within Giant’s contemporary assortment. Fortuitously for discerning patrons such as yourself and I, it assumes the mantle of the most economical option currently retailing on the manufacturer’s online platform for a mere $1,300. Moreover, it is imbued with the identical geometry and prowess as its pricier carbon-fiber counterparts all the while maintaining a fraction of the associated cost.
This feat is accomplished by the craftsmanship of Giant centering this iteration around naught but an aluminum framework thus meticulously curbing both expenditure and mass. Yet, the intricacies extend beyond this rudimentary revelation. Let us delve further into the intricacies to uncover the offerings poised for the impending season.
As we delve into the taxonomy of the XTC Giant deems it an XC hardtail. However, in my exploration of this velocipede, an idiosyncrasy caught my discerning eye—the subtly descended seat stay. This attribute is a hallmark frequently espied in the domain of gravel and extended-distance riding apparatus seamlessly integrated here. It portends a supple rear for the hardtail harmonizing with the undulating terrains traversed.
Adding to the quotient of comfort is the inclining top tube offering ample clearance proximal to the seat tube ensuring an uneventful descent should the need arise after surmounting a modest ledge.
At the anterior domain of the XTC Giant introduces a suspension fork with a traverse of 100 mm (3.9 in)
Bestowed with the nomenclature Crest 34 RRL it boasts an in-house provenance with remote lockout functionality. When one considers the entire contraption perched upon 29-inch pneumatic casings the anticipated smoothness and plushness of your excursions become indeterminate all while retaining an enticing price tag of $1,300.
It is paramount to note that the more opulent renditions of the XTC series in Giant’s repertoire are endowed with a dropper post. However for this variant the feasibility seems to be contingent on an additional monetary infusion to procure a compatible post.
Furthermore and correct me if I err but does the posterior aspect of this specimen feature asymmetric chain stays? If this speculation holds it implies that Giant invested considerable temporal resources in refining and optimizing this steed for zenith efficiency and mastery. While it may be a mere optical illusion considering the inclusion of this feature in other XTC iterations its presence here is plausible.
Now where the essence of Giant’s commitment to maximizing value becomes palpable is in the powertrain. To my pleasant surprise none other than SRAM lends its prestige to this thirteen-hundred-dollar velocipede. As standard fare an SX Eagle configuration with 11-50T harmonizes with a 30T crankset forming a robust foundation for power transmission and seamless gear transitions even under duress.
Curiously Shimano also asserts its influence in this endeavor contributing to Giant’s repository of braking prowess. To be clear Shimano is a venerable brand that has dictated industry standards for epochs. Nonetheless for an MTB SRAM has burgeoned into the preferred selection.
The XTC SLR 29 2
Image: Giant Bicycles
To what extent does this bicycle merit consideration and why should it command your attention? Evaluating from your vantage point might be a nuanced endeavor but numerous riders who have embraced this two-wheeled marvel provide a resounding testimony. Strikingly some of these patrons have leveraged this economical XTC to secure victories in competitive arenas.
This bequeaths several advantages to prospective owners. Primarily ownership of a bicycle capable of conquering off-road topographies yet versatile enough for urban landscapes all at a modest price point. It transcends being merely an affordable means of transportation it can serve as a potential revenue generator by clinching accolades thereby offsetting its acquisition cost.
One drawback discerned especially for enthusiasts embarking on extensive rides to the peripheries of town is the absence of integrated cargo mounts within the frame. The provisions are limited to a couple of locales for affixing a receptacle for a water bottle. Nevertheless an array of aftermarket cargo solutions exists elevating the XTC to a higher echelon. In the grand scheme do we truly necessitate bikes commanding exorbitant sums? Seize an XTC instead.